Posterior Capsular Opacification in High Myopic Eyes Post Cataract Surgery: A Single Centre Experience from Western India

Background: Posterior capsular opacification (PCO) is common delayed complication following cataract surgery. High myopia is a recognized risk factor for PCO ,yet the incidence of PCO specifically in this population remains underexplored. Aims: To study PCO rate in high myopic patients operated for cataract surgery and relationship of axial length with grade of PCO. Setting and Design: Prospective observational study at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: This study included 40 high myopic eyes (spherical equivalent ≥ –6.0 D or axial length ≥ 26.5 mm) who underwent SICS with rigid PCIOL implantation at tertiary care center. PCO was diagnosed by slit-lamp biomicroscopy. Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using SPSS v27.0 with Chi-square test, t-test,pearson correlation,logistic regression. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: PCO occurred in 72.5% (29/40) of patients (p=0.0044), with a mean onset of 10.34 ± 4.01 months. Central PCO was predominant (89.7%), and Grade 2 was most common (57.7%). Mean axial length was 27.39 ± 1.15 mm, significantly higher in PCO cases. Axial length correlated positively with PCO grade (p=0.0476) and negatively with time to PCO (r=-0.746, p<0.0001). Lower IOL power (3-8 D) was associated with higher PCO incidence (p=0.0089) Spherical equivalent showed a non-significant trend toward higher PCO (p=0.0781). Conclusion: Posterior capsular opacification is an under-recognized complication after cataract surgery in high myopes. Awareness of its incidence and risk factors is important for surgical planning, postoperative counseling, and timely management.